Columbia firefighters arrived on the scene at 11:42 p.m. and found smoke in the lobby. Firefighters confirmed that everyone was out of the building and determined the fire was contained to a commercial dryer. One Automatic Sprinkler Head extinguished the fire in the dryer area.

Columbia Assistant Fire Marshal Jim Paysley is investigating the cause of the fire. Damage is estimated at $10,000 to the commercial dryer and water damage. There were no injuries. Three fire engines, a ladder truck, and a rescue squad responded to the incident. Units remained on the scene for more than an hour removing smoke from building.

The Columbia Fire Department wants to remind residents that working smoke alarms do save lives. Test your smoke alarms at least once a month by pressing the test button. Replace smoke alarm batteries at least once a year. Replace smoke alarms every 10 years. To ensure adequate protection, place smoke alarms in every sleeping room, and in a common area on every floor.